Journal
BIOTECHNOLOGY ADVANCES
Volume 29, Issue 6, Pages 913-922Publisher
PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD
DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2011.07.012
Keywords
Chemical characteristics; Critical micelle concentration; Humic acid; Natural surfactant; Technological application
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In the context of renewable vs. non-renewable sources of chemical compounds, the development of natural surfactants as a substitute for synthetic surfactants in technological applications is an important issue. In addition, as synthetic surfactants can persist in the environment causing toxic effects, the use of natural products presents a possibility to minimize impact on the environment. Nowadays, a promising new approach in surfactant-based technologies, consists of the use of humic acids (HAs) extracted directly from biomass that exhibit amphiphilic properties, and can be conveniently used as environmentally friendly surfactants. The raw material from which HAs are extracted and their macromolecular composition affect surfactant properties. Therefore fundamental data from more strictly qualitative aspects, needs to be investigated. This review highlights surfactant ability and chemical properties of HA substances coming from renewable sources in comparison to synthetic surfactants, and points out the capacity for HAs to be used effectively in this field of application. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
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